Passion drives the members of this Florida-based organization
By Christopher W. Cook
A Google search of “Florida insurance market” led me to one of the questions that “people also ask”: What is causing the insurance crisis in Florida? While I’m not here to discuss natural disasters and litigation costs, I am here to discuss a bright spot shining on the independent insurance industry in the Sunshine State and beyond—an organization that educates and advocates with a festive flair.
Established in 1969 as “The Voice of Independent Insurance Agents,” The Latin American Association of Insurance Agencies (LAAIA) was created by seven Latino visionaries seeking representation in the industry. Initially focused in the South Florida area, the LAAIA expanded its reach in 2019 to include Georgia, Texas, and Colorado. Today, its members collectively oversee premiums exceeding $1 billion.
“We are dedicated to fostering a robust insurance landscape through various initiatives,” says Juan Carlos Diaz-Padron, president of LAAIA. “These include providing ongoing education, advocating for legislative matters, participating in national advisory councils, hosting monthly networking events, engaging in community outreach efforts, and organizing the largest annual insurance convention and trade fair in South Florida.
“As a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit professional association, LAAIA remains committed to serving as an advocate for independent insurance agents and promoting excellence within the industry,” he adds.
Today, taking charge of the organization is its Board of Directors, consisting of 11 dedicated individuals. They include:
- Juan Carlos Diaz-Padron, President—GIC Underwriters, Inc.
“By nurturing and promoting talent from diverse backgrounds, we enrich both our organization and the broader insurance community.”
—Juan Carlos Diaz-Padron
President
LAAIA
- Al Mendez, Vice President—Mendez & Associates Insurance
- Javier Naranjo, Immediate Past President—Everisk Insurance Programs
- Hector Trujillo, Treasurer—Arena Insurance Agency
- Alison Kallman, Secretary—Marshall & Sterling of Florida, Inc.
- David Hand, Director—Pini Insurance
- Barry Sanders, Director—Knight Insurance
- Shelby Morena, Director—Wright National Flood Insurance Services
- Rudy Valdes-Diaz, Director—recently retired from Hull & Company
- Maria Fisk, Director—International Insurance Center, Inc.
- Jason Grodensky, Director—Green Shield Risk
So, who can join the LAAIA?
“Anyone can join and it’s easy to become a member,” says Diaz-Padron. “Go to our website (laaia.com), fill out a brief application and process the yearly fee of $225 and you are part of the LAAIA family. You can choose a chapter of choice or simply become a member at large. Once you become a member, you are a member of the entire organization and can attend events at any of our chapters.”
Membership is open to any insurance professional, whether they be a P-C, multi-line or life and health agent; an agency owner; carrier; broker; MGA; MGU; program manager or vendor.
“Whether it’s a local meeting, educational webinar or the amazing annual convention, I’ve never attended an event that I didn’t leave with value.”
—Alex Dopazo
Vice President
Dopazo & Associates
The benefits of membership are numerous. “The LAAIA offers high-quality, cost-effective, and thoroughly vetted insurance products and services for our members,” says Diaz-Padron. “We are passionately dedicated to empowering and celebrating the achievements of our members through comprehensive education and support.
“Moreover, we recognize the importance of fostering diversity within the insurance sector,” he explains. “That’s why we’re devoted to attracting Latino talent by offering a range of scholarships, mentorship programs, and initiatives to raise awareness about the plethora of career opportunities available in the industry.
“By nurturing and promoting talent from diverse backgrounds, we enrich both our organization and the broader insurance community.”
Annual conference and more
A staple of the organization is its annual conference. This year’s event takes place August 21-24 at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort. The four-day event will explore “The Power of Partnership” because, according to the convention’s website, “in the insurance industry, collaboration is the key to unlocking success. From agent-carrier partnerships to technological advancements and regulatory compliance, partnerships are at the heart of insurance’s ever-evolving landscape.”
Attendees can expect:
- Over 120 exhibitors, providing opportunities to explore the latest cutting-edge industry products and services
- Educational sessions from industry thought leaders, who will discuss industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices
- Inspiring speakers, including a keynote by Progressive CEO Tricia Griffith
- Evening networking events on Marco Island. Does more need to be said?
If you’re unable to attend the annual conference, additional opportunities are available throughout the year.
“Each chapter provides a plethora of engagement opportunities,” says Diaz-Padron. “Monthly, our chapters host in-person educational and networking events. Moreover, they select a charity to support, allowing our members to actively participate and volunteer in giving back to their communities.
“In addition, our national organization provides educational seminars that are offered complimentary to our membership quarterly,” he notes. “Also, our state-specific legislative committees empower our members to actively participate in and advocate for legislative matters within their respective states.”
Opportunities are abound when it comes to continuing education with the LAAIA, because “in the insurance industry, learning isn’t just an option, it’s our competitive edge and a vital responsibility to the consumer,” says Diaz-Padron.
An agency perspective
Founded in 1997, Dopazo & Associates (the April 2019 Rough Notes Agency of the Month) focuses on Main Street commercial businesses, primarily in Florida, Georgia and Texas. The agency joined LAAIA in 2004.
When it comes to the association’s events, “we participate in as many as we can,” says Alex Dopazo, agency vice president. “It’s such a welcoming and collaborative community. Whether it’s a local meeting, educational webinar or the amazing annual convention, I’ve never attended an event that I didn’t leave with value.
“The passionate volunteers and the experiences that the LAAIA creates at their events has benefitted our agency in several ways. The exposure to industry experts has shaped everything in our agency, from our processes to our partnerships, not to mention we’re able to share and learn from other business owners in similar situations.”
If your organization is contemplating joining LAAIA, Dopazo urges you not to be hesitant. “Don’t wait, and once you join, jump right in,” he says. “Take advantage of some of the many opportunities to get involved. It’s in the community that you’ll find the greatest benefit of being a part of such a diverse and dynamic group.”
“Time is the most precious asset for both individuals and businesses,” Diaz-Padron adds. “The LAAIA provides immediate personal advantages, no matter your level of industry experience or background.
“From your initial meeting or attendance at our convention, you’ll experience the passion that drives our members,” he concludes.
For more information:
Latin American Association of Insurance Agencies
laaia.com
